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El Bilali H, Ben Hassen T. Regional Agriculture and Food Systems Amid the COVID-19 Pandemic: The Case of the Near East and North Africa Region. Foods 2024; 13:297. [PMID: 38254598 PMCID: PMC10815245 DOI: 10.3390/foods13020297] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/17/2023] [Revised: 12/22/2023] [Accepted: 12/31/2023] [Indexed: 01/24/2024] Open
Abstract
The COVID-19 pandemic affected agri-food systems worldwide. However, while the impacts differed from one country/region to another, the scholarly literature seems to focus on developed countries in the Global North. Consequently, this review scrutinizes the literature on the pandemic's impacts in the Near East and North Africa (NENA) region. A search on the Web of Science in March 2023 generated 334 documents, of which 151 were eligible for inclusion in the systematic review. According to the bibliometric analysis, the most active nations are Saudi Arabia, Egypt, Jordan, the United Arab Emirates, and Lebanon. In general, the coverage of studies is better in the Gulf region than in the less developed countries of North Africa and those suffering from wars (cf. Libya, Syria, and Yemen). Studies generally focus on crop production and the downstream food chain (cf. distribution and consumption). While the pandemic influenced every pillar of food security, this research concentrates on access and utilization. Meanwhile, the lion's share of the literature deals with the pandemic's socio-economic effects, especially those linked to food (in)security and health. The pandemic, which laid bare the agri-food system vulnerabilities, should be seized to foster the transition towards more resilient agri-food systems in the NENA region.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hamid El Bilali
- International Centre for Advanced Mediterranean Agronomic Studies (CIHEAM-Bari), Via Ceglie 9, 70010 Valenzano, Bari, Italy;
| | - Tarek Ben Hassen
- Program of Policy, Planning, and Development, Department of International Affairs, College of Arts and Sciences, Qatar University, Doha P.O. Box 2713, Qatar
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Holdbrooke SJ, Afolabi BM, David NA, Kareem KO, Salako A, Aina OO. Perception, knowledge, and consumption pattern of dietary supplement used during COVID-19 pandemic among black Africans: Perspective of Nigerians. DIALOGUES IN HEALTH 2023; 2:100106. [PMID: 36744009 PMCID: PMC9889116 DOI: 10.1016/j.dialog.2023.100106] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/25/2022] [Revised: 01/23/2023] [Accepted: 01/28/2023] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
The awareness of the health implication of Covid-19 pandemic marked an increase consumption of various dietary and herbal supplements (DHS) for the deterrence and/or prophylaxis against the novel emerging and infectious disease. However, there is little indication of the usefulness or otherwise of their use in alleviating symptoms of COVID-19. Objectives To investigate the pattern and determinants of DHS use among the Nigerian population for the prevention and treatment of COVID-19. Design Cross-sectional questionnaire survey. Setting: Older adolescents and adults residing in Nigeria. Participants Participants (n = 645) residing in the Nigeria were recruited from different geo-political zones and various ethnic groups. Primary and secondary outcomes Prevalence and determinants for the use of different DHS for the prevention and treatment of COVID-19 in Nigeria, and sources of information for DHS use. Results Most participants (425, 65.9%) believed that dietary supplements are necessary during infectious disease outbreak, but a fewer proportion believed that supplements can be used in conjunction with other drugs to treat Covid-19. Vitamin C was the most known (70.0%) and Vitamin A. The least known (0.3%) dietary supplement Approximately half (50.2%) of the study subjects, more than a third (37.8%) and less than a quarter (22.7%) were aware that Folic acid, vitamin D and vitamin E are DS. Herbal dietary supplements mentioned as known by the study participants included Garlic (46.5%), Ginger (44.7%), Tumeric (36.3%), Moringa (40.0%) and Ginseng (26.3%). Citrus fruit as a DS was recognized by fewer (6.5%) study participants and only 1.6% referred to herbal tea as DHS. In all, 571 (88.5%) of the study participants took DHS during the Covid-19 pandemic with males 1.5 times more likely to take DHS than females (χ2 = 3.09, P-value = 0.08, OR = 1.54, 95% CI = 0.95, 2.47) during the pandemic. Participants reported lesser consumption of Selenium (27, 4.2%), Iron (20,3.1%), Zinc (61, 9.5%) and calcium (101, 15.7%) to prevent/treat Covid-19. Majority (271, 42.0%) of the study participants mentioned "health worker" as source of information on DHS while 13% mentioned "Social media". The sociodemographic determinants of DHS practices used to prevent/treat COVID-19 during the pandemic included older age group of 61-70 years, widows, secondary level of education and not employed. Conclusions The findings showed widespread use of DHS for the prevention and treatment of COVID-19. The use of DHS in this study was mainly guided by health workers with a marginal role of social media and Mass media. These findings call for a more robust consolidative tactic towards DHS to ensure its proper and safe use.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Bamgboye M. Afolabi
- Nigerian Institute of Medical Research, 6 Edmond Crescent, Yaba, Lagos, Nigeria
- Health, Environment and Development Foundation, Yaba, Lagos, Nigeria
| | - Nkiru A. David
- Nigerian Institute of Medical Research, 6 Edmond Crescent, Yaba, Lagos, Nigeria
| | - Kafilat O. Kareem
- Nigerian Institute of Medical Research, 6 Edmond Crescent, Yaba, Lagos, Nigeria
| | - Abideen Salako
- Nigerian Institute of Medical Research, 6 Edmond Crescent, Yaba, Lagos, Nigeria
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Nawaiseh HK, Abdelrahim DN, Al-Domi H, Al-Assaf MS, Al-Nawaiseh FK. The impact of vitamin D, vitamin C, and zinc supplements on immune status among Jordanian adults during COVID-19: cross-sectional study findings. BMC Public Health 2023; 23:2251. [PMID: 37968651 PMCID: PMC10652433 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-023-17172-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2023] [Accepted: 11/06/2023] [Indexed: 11/17/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND AIMS Nutritional status is essential for the maintenance of the immune system, with malnutrition suppressing immunity. The aims of the current study were to assess the immune status of a group of Jordanian adults and to evaluate the association between vitamin C, vitamin D, and zinc consumption and the Immune Status during the COVID-19 pandemic. METHODS A total of 615 adults Jordanian participants were enrolled in this study, an online- based cross sectional survey was used as a tool for this study. Data was collected by distributing the questionnaire form link through social media platforms. The association between ISQ score and the supplement intake pattern (daily, weekly, monthly and rarely) was assessed using multinomial logistic regression analysis, described as Odds ratio and 95% CI. RESULTS Data have indicated that the majority of the participants did not take Vitamin D supplements during the pandemic (46.3%). Also, there was a significant association between the frequency of Vitamin D supplement intake and ISQ (r = 12.777; P < 0.05). Data showed that the majority of participants used vitamin C supplementation (49.4%). Also, there was a significant association between the frequency of Vitamin C supplement intake and ISQ (r = 12.797; P < 0.05). Data also have indicated that the majority of the participants did not increase their consumption of Zinc during the COVID-19 pandemic (55.6%). CONCLUSIONS The findings of this study suggest a significant association between the frequency of Vitamin D, and vitamin C supplement intake and ISQ. Nutritional status is essential for the maintenance of the immune system, with malnutrition suppressing immunity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hala K Nawaiseh
- Department of nutrition and food technology, Faculty of Agriculture, The University of Jordan, 11942, Amman, Jordan.
| | - Dana N Abdelrahim
- Research Institute for Medical and Health Sciences, Sharjah University, 27272, Sharjah, United Arab Emirates
| | - Hayder Al-Domi
- Department of nutrition and food technology, Faculty of Agriculture, The University of Jordan, 11942, Amman, Jordan
| | - Mohammad S Al-Assaf
- Department of Ears, Nose and Throat, King Hussein Medical Centre (KHMC), Amman, Jordan
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Dalibalta S, Ghader N, Rabah L, Shaban S, Al Mheiri N. Impact of COVID-19 restrictions on health and well-being in the United Arab Emirates. Front Psychol 2023; 14:1259974. [PMID: 38022961 PMCID: PMC10657631 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2023.1259974] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2023] [Accepted: 10/09/2023] [Indexed: 12/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Restrictions during the COVID-19 pandemic are thought to have impacted both the physical health and well-being of individuals where lockdown was applied. The United Arab Emirates (UAE) was one of the leading countries in implementing the international guidelines to limit the intensely contagious nature of the outbreak. Aim To identify the impact of COVID-19 on changes to exercise and general physical activity habits, changes to the consumption of various foods and potential weight gain, as well as any differences in smoking habits among individuals residing in the UAE during the COVID-19 quarantine. Methods This is a cross-sectional analytical study that used a quantitative electronic questionnaire sent by the Ministry of Health and Prevention to individuals on its platform in order to collect data on the physical health and well-being of a UAE sample population. A total of 2,362 responses were received to specific questions on physical activity, eating habits, and tobacco use for the period before, during, and after the COVID-19 lockdown. Descriptive statistical analysis was used to display the sample's demographic data and the changes in physical health and well-being. Paired t-test was used to show the changes in dietary habits. Results This study reveals concerning changes in health risk behaviors during the COVID-19 lockdown in the UAE. Physical activity levels declined across mild, moderate and vigorous ranges in most participants. Alarmingly, sedentary behavior dramatically increased with 71% of participants spending an average of 4-8 h per day sitting and over 54% of participants spending more than 4 h watching TV on an average day during lockdown. Fast-food consumption and snacking rose, hence weight gain was observed in over 53% of participants. Smoking habits, especially among cigarette smokers, may have worsened, with 45.2% reporting an increase in cigarette smoking, 16.8% declaring an increase in shisha smoking and 35.3% reporting an increase in smoking other tobacco products. These unfavorable behaviors during confinement could have serious long-term health consequences. Conclusion This study demonstrates that long periods of home quarantine may have led to unhealthy consequences that increase the risk of developing disease. This study therefore aims to highlight these health impacts, and recommend strategies and policies that can encourage healthy habits.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah Dalibalta
- College of Arts and Sciences, American University of Sharjah, University City, Sharjah, United Arab Emirates
| | - Nariman Ghader
- Department of Mental Health, Medical Services Sector, Emirates Health Services, Dubai, United Arab Emirates
| | - Layal Rabah
- College of Arts and Sciences, American University of Sharjah, University City, Sharjah, United Arab Emirates
| | - Sami Shaban
- College of Medicine and Health Sciences, United Arab Emirates University, Al Ain, United Arab Emirates
| | - Noor Al Mheiri
- Department of Mental Health, Medical Services Sector, Emirates Health Services, Dubai, United Arab Emirates
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Djaoudene O, Romano A, Bradai YD, Zebiri F, Ouchene A, Yousfi Y, Amrane-Abider M, Sahraoui-Remini Y, Madani K. A Global Overview of Dietary Supplements: Regulation, Market Trends, Usage during the COVID-19 Pandemic, and Health Effects. Nutrients 2023; 15:3320. [PMID: 37571258 PMCID: PMC10421343 DOI: 10.3390/nu15153320] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/05/2023] [Revised: 07/23/2023] [Accepted: 07/24/2023] [Indexed: 08/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Over the last 20 years, the use of dietary supplements (DS) has continued to grow in many countries. Due to the public health crisis brought on by the COVID-19 pandemic and amidst fears regarding COVID-19 vaccines and their low supply in many regions of the world, there has been a marked interest in the use of DS as alternative means of protecting against and treating this emerging disease, as well as boosting the immune system and minimizing the risk of inflammation. Despite a lack of evidence to suggest their efficacy, a surge in the sales of DS has been reported in many parts of the world. Questions have also been raised about the health effects associated with DS due to their increased use during the health crisis. Numerous scientific studies have demonstrated their beneficial properties as well as some adverse and even toxic effects. In addition, given the current global interest in this issue, a review is needed to establish the status of dietary supplements before and during the health crisis. The aim of this review is to summarize the current evidence on the impact of dietary supplements on the incidence of the COVID-19 pandemic, as well as their regulation and associated market trends. First, we provide an overview of DS, including a comprehensive review of the legislative and regulatory aspects of DS in the USA, China, the EU, and Algeria. Second, we describe the prevalence of the most commonly consumed DS and their efficacy as a prophylactic modality in the era of COVID-19. Additionally, we examine the structure and size of the DS market in the countries that predominantly produce and import them, its global market trend, and the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on market growth. Finally, in this review, we also discuss the profile of DS users.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ouarda Djaoudene
- Centre de Recherche en Technologies Agroalimentaires, Route de Targa Ouzemmour, Campus Universitaire, Bejaia 06000, Algeria; (Y.D.B.); (F.Z.); (A.O.); (Y.Y.); (M.A.-A.); (Y.S.-R.); (K.M.)
| | - Anabela Romano
- MED—Mediterranean Institute for Agriculture, Environment and Development, CHANGE—Global Change and Sustainability Institute, Faculdade de Ciências e Tecnologia, Universidade do Algarve, Campus de Gambelas, 8005-139 Faro, Portugal
| | - Yasmine Djedjiga Bradai
- Centre de Recherche en Technologies Agroalimentaires, Route de Targa Ouzemmour, Campus Universitaire, Bejaia 06000, Algeria; (Y.D.B.); (F.Z.); (A.O.); (Y.Y.); (M.A.-A.); (Y.S.-R.); (K.M.)
| | - Feriel Zebiri
- Centre de Recherche en Technologies Agroalimentaires, Route de Targa Ouzemmour, Campus Universitaire, Bejaia 06000, Algeria; (Y.D.B.); (F.Z.); (A.O.); (Y.Y.); (M.A.-A.); (Y.S.-R.); (K.M.)
| | - Amina Ouchene
- Centre de Recherche en Technologies Agroalimentaires, Route de Targa Ouzemmour, Campus Universitaire, Bejaia 06000, Algeria; (Y.D.B.); (F.Z.); (A.O.); (Y.Y.); (M.A.-A.); (Y.S.-R.); (K.M.)
| | - Yasmine Yousfi
- Centre de Recherche en Technologies Agroalimentaires, Route de Targa Ouzemmour, Campus Universitaire, Bejaia 06000, Algeria; (Y.D.B.); (F.Z.); (A.O.); (Y.Y.); (M.A.-A.); (Y.S.-R.); (K.M.)
| | - Meriem Amrane-Abider
- Centre de Recherche en Technologies Agroalimentaires, Route de Targa Ouzemmour, Campus Universitaire, Bejaia 06000, Algeria; (Y.D.B.); (F.Z.); (A.O.); (Y.Y.); (M.A.-A.); (Y.S.-R.); (K.M.)
| | - Yasmine Sahraoui-Remini
- Centre de Recherche en Technologies Agroalimentaires, Route de Targa Ouzemmour, Campus Universitaire, Bejaia 06000, Algeria; (Y.D.B.); (F.Z.); (A.O.); (Y.Y.); (M.A.-A.); (Y.S.-R.); (K.M.)
| | - Khodir Madani
- Centre de Recherche en Technologies Agroalimentaires, Route de Targa Ouzemmour, Campus Universitaire, Bejaia 06000, Algeria; (Y.D.B.); (F.Z.); (A.O.); (Y.Y.); (M.A.-A.); (Y.S.-R.); (K.M.)
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Koparal M, Ege M. Dietary supplements used by otolaryngology patients in Turkey during the COVID-19 pandemic: A cross-sectional survey. Eur J Integr Med 2023; 60:102249. [PMID: 37163158 PMCID: PMC10077764 DOI: 10.1016/j.eujim.2023.102249] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/08/2022] [Revised: 04/03/2023] [Accepted: 04/05/2023] [Indexed: 05/11/2023]
Abstract
Introduction This study investigated the characteristics of dietary supplement (DS) use of patients who attended the otolaryngology clinic at a university training and research hospital in Turkey during the pandemic, including patients who had experienced Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). Methods This cross-sectional study was conducted between March and September 2021. 277 literate patients aged ≥ 18 years who attended the otolaryngology clinic were enrolled. A questionnaire was used to collect sociodemographic data, as well as data on DS use during the pandemic. The questionnaire was administered in a face-to-face setting by a single researcher. Results Approximately half of the participants (50.18%) took DSs during the pandemic and 67.18% of those who experienced COVID-19 infection used DSs during their illness. The most commonly used supplements were vitamin C (43.16%) and D (33.09%), along with herbal supplements such as lemon (54.68%), garlic (46.76%), ginger (46.04%), and thyme (43.88%). In total, 85.23% of the patients primarily used DSs to enhance their immunity, while 32.95% used them to prevent cough, and 26.14% to improve breathing. The majority of the patients (85.23%) felt benefit from DSs. Typically, the patients obtained information about DSs from doctors (32.37%) or friends and relatives (29.49%), and most of them used the supplements without first consulting a doctor (63.64%). Conclusion DSs were commonly used by otolaryngology patients during the COVID-19 pandemic, particularly to enhance immunity. Although the majority of patients reportedly benefited from these products, most of them did not inform their physicians that they were using them and often obtained information from unofficial sources.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mehtap Koparal
- Department of Otolaryngology, Faculty of Medicine, Adiyaman University, Adiyaman, Turkey
| | - Miray Ege
- Department of Pharmacognosy, Faculty of Pharmacy, Adiyaman University, Adiyaman, Turkey
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d'Arqom A, Nasution MZ, Kadir SZSA, Yusof J, Govindaraju K. Practice and knowledge of dietary supplement consumption among Indonesian adults post-delta wave of the COVID-19 pandemic. F1000Res 2023; 12:3. [PMID: 37469719 PMCID: PMC10352623 DOI: 10.12688/f1000research.129045.2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 05/02/2023] [Indexed: 07/21/2023] Open
Abstract
Background: Increasing dietary supplement (DS) consumption was observed during the COVID-19 pandemic, including during the post-Delta wave period. This study aimed to measure the practice of DS consumption and respondents' knowledge of DS. Methods: An internet-based survey was distributed from October-December 2021 and obtained 541 valid and completed responses. Descriptive analysis was performed to present the practice of DS consumption, including frequency, duration, aim, preferable dosage form etc. Level of knowledge on DS principles, side effects and regulation were also measured. Inferential analyses were conducted to determine the predictors of the respondents' DS practice and level of knowledge. Results: Data from 541 valid responses showed that 77.63% of respondents consumed DS in the last 3 months, with only 59.52% reporting also consuming DS before the COVID-19 pandemic. One half of the respondents had good knowledge about DS; however, some knowledge regarding side effects and possible drug-supplement interaction needed improvement. Their DS consumption practice was affected by their economic status and history of contracting COVID-19. Nevertheless, the level of knowledge was not affected by the sociodemographic factors and DS supplement experience. Conclusions: Taken together, the practice of self-consumption of DS in Indonesia is increasing; hence, knowledge of DS is necessary to avoid detrimental effects that might occur in the future. Increasing access to information on better labelling and educating consumers about DS are important actions to consider.
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Affiliation(s)
- Annette d'Arqom
- Translational Medicine and Therapeutics Research Group, Universitas Airlangga, Surabaya, 60131, Indonesia
- Department of Anatomy, Histology, and Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine, Universitas Airlangga, Surabaya, East Java, 60131, Indonesia
| | - Mhd Zamal Nasution
- Postgraduate School, Universitas Airlangga, Surabaya, East Java, 60286, Indonesia
| | | | - Junaidah Yusof
- School of Human Resource Development & Psychology, Faculty of Social Sciences & Humanities, Universiti Teknologi Malaysia, Johor Bahru, 81310, Malaysia
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Doğan G, Özyildirim C, Yabanci Ayhan N. Supplementation use and diet changes during COVID-19 pandemic according to anxiety level and Mediterranean diet adherence. Clin Nutr ESPEN 2023; 54:122-129. [PMID: 36963853 PMCID: PMC9873361 DOI: 10.1016/j.clnesp.2023.01.022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/14/2022] [Revised: 11/02/2022] [Accepted: 01/17/2023] [Indexed: 01/26/2023]
Abstract
Aim; This study was planned and conducted to examine the change in food consumption and nutritional supplement use during the COVID-19 pandemic according to individuals' status of anxiety and Mediterranean diet adherence. Methods; This prospective, cross-sectional research was completed online with the participation of 949 people (66.4% women). The Mediterranean Diet Adherence Screener Scale (MEDAS) and Coronavirus Anxiety Scale (CAS) were applied. After this section of the questionnaire was completed, the participants were tasked with answering questions regarding changes in food consumption and use of nutritional supplements during the pandemic. Results; While 50.8% of the participants had low adherence to the Mediterranean diet, 18.2% were considered to have a high adherence. It was observed that legume (p = 0.001), milk and dairy (p = 0.01), and fruit (p < 0.001) consumption of participants with high adherence to the Mediterranean diet increased during the pandemic, and packaged food (p < 0.001) consumption decreased. The increase in the consumption of fruit (p < 0.001) and vegetables (p = 0.018) were significantly higher in the group with anxiety. Age, sex, educational status, positive COVID-19 test, place of residence, CAS score and MEDAS score affect the use of dietary supplements according to binary logistic regression (R2 = 0.106 p < 0.001). The three most commonly used supplements were identified as vitamins C, D and B12. Conclusions: These results can shed light on how to prepare for possible future pandemics when it comes to dealing with anxiety through diet.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gökcen Doğan
- Health Sciences Faculty, Department of Nutrition and Dietetics, Ankara University, Fatih Cad. No:197 Keçiören, Ankara, Turkey.
| | - Caner Özyildirim
- Health Sciences Faculty, Department of Nutrition and Dietetics, Akdeniz University, Dumlupınar Boulevard 07058, Konyaaltı, Antalya, Turkey.
| | - Nurcan Yabanci Ayhan
- Health Sciences Faculty, Department of Nutrition and Dietetics, Ankara University, Fatih Cad. No:197 Keçiören, Ankara, Turkey.
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Pranjic N, Karabasic A. Dietary Supplementation Practices Among Undergraduate Students in Greece During the COVID-19 Pandemic and Their Association with COVID-19-related Anxiety. Mater Sociomed 2023; 35:140-147. [PMID: 37701341 PMCID: PMC10495141 DOI: 10.5455/msm.2023.35.140-147] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/10/2023] [Accepted: 03/06/2023] [Indexed: 09/14/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Despite the lack of evidence-based guidance on supplement use for the prevention and treatment of COVID-19, consumption of dietary supplements has been shown to increase in many countries. Objective This study aimed to explore the use of dietary supplements among undergraduate students. Methods An online cross-sectional survey was conducted between May and June 2021, involving a total of 536 participants (57.8% female) aged between 18-30 years in two university towns in central and northern Greece. Two validated questionnaires were used regarding dietary supplements and stress during COVID-19. Results The prevalence of dietary supplement use was 67.5%. The three most popular supplements consumed were vitamin C (65.2%), followed by vitamin D (58.3%), and multivitamin and mineral supplements (56.9%). The use of CAS-5 indicated that 13.1% of students were classified as having dysfunctional anxiety due to COVID-19 (CAS-5 score ≥5). Logistic regression analysis showed that those who exhibited CAS-5 ≥5 were over two times more likely to consume supplements compared to no-stress participants (OR 2.29, 95%CI: 1.09-4.82). Particularly vitamin D use was associated with CAS score ≥5 (OR 2.18, 95%CI 1.22-3.89) a finding that was not observed with other types of dietary supplements. Conclusion Women, passive smokers, and those who believe that DS are necessary during the COVID-19 pandemic were also more likely to consume dietary supplements. The use of dietary supplements is widespread among Greek students. Future studies should be conducted to monitor whether these increases in DS use are maintained.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nurka Pranjic
- Department of Occupational Medicine, Faculty of Medicine University of Tuzla, Tuzla, Bosnia and Herzegovina
| | - Almedina Karabasic
- Departmant of Clinical Pharmacology, Faculty of Pharmacy University of Tuzla, Tuzla, Bosnia and Herzegovina
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Kontopoulou L, Vasara E, Paraskevadaki E, Karpetas G, Papathanasiou IV, Gourgoulianis KI. Public Health Dimensions of CVD Prevention and Control - Global Perspectives and Current Situation in the Federation of BiH. Mater Sociomed 2023; 35:152-156. [PMID: 37701339 PMCID: PMC10495152 DOI: 10.5455/msm.2023.35.152-156] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/10/2023] [Accepted: 03/06/2023] [Indexed: 09/14/2023] Open
Abstract
Background CVD remains a leading cause of death in Europe and worldwide accounting for 3.9 million deaths each year in Europe alone. Even with well-known risk factors and the current standards of health care, improvement of health and quality of life of CVD patients are still remains one of the biggest public health challenges we must overcome. Objective The aim of this narrative review is to provide a brief overview of the recent and relevant documents of good practice in prevention, diagnostic and therapeutic approaches of Cardiovascular diseases that should be consider as milestones for the health authorities in the Federation of BiH. Cardiovascular diseases stil represent a worldwide public health problem, with some new dimensions caused by challenges caused through pandemic of COVID-19. The wellknown cardiovascular risk factors require new and more efficient public health approaches to the prevention and control. Conclusion Due to the recently developed cardiovascular guidelines that were made by the European Society of Cardiology and World Heart Federation, key priority for health authorities should be is to update the existing CVD guidelines in the Federation of BiH in accordance with the international good practice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lamprini Kontopoulou
- Faculty of Nursing, Respiratory Disorders Lab, University of Thessaly, Larissa, Greece
| | - Eleni Vasara
- Department of Zoology, School of Biology, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Eva Paraskevadaki
- Eva Paraskevadaki, Research and Statistics Consultant, StepUpAdvisor.gr, Greece
| | - Georgios Karpetas
- Faculty of Medicine, Medical Informatics Lab, University of Thessaly, Larissa, Greece
| | | | - Konstantinos I. Gourgoulianis
- Faculty of Medicine, Pulmonology, University General Hospital of Larissa, Larissa, Greece
- Faculty of Medicine, Pulmonology, University of Thessaly, Larissa, Greece
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Intarakamhang U, Prasittichok P. Causal model of health literacy in dietary supplement use and sufficient health behavior among working-age adults. Heliyon 2022; 8:e11535. [DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2022.e11535] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/06/2022] [Revised: 05/31/2022] [Accepted: 11/02/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
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Jirjees F, Barakat M, Shubbar Q, Othman B, Alzubaidi H, Al-Obaidi H. Perceptions of COVID-19 symptoms, prevention, and treatment strategies among people in seven Arab countries: A cross-sectional study. J Infect Public Health 2022; 15:1108-1117. [PMID: 36137360 PMCID: PMC9462932 DOI: 10.1016/j.jiph.2022.08.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/22/2022] [Revised: 08/13/2022] [Accepted: 08/29/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUP the widespread COVID-19 infection worldwide has resulted in the inability of healthcare facilities to receive all infected patients; therefore, most are treated at home. In addition, factors such as high mortality, types and severity of symptoms, and the prevalence of unreliable information have prompted patients to resort to self-treatment. OBJECTIVES To assess prevention, treatment, degree of symptoms, and sources of information among patients with COVID-19 in Arab countries METHOD: A cross-sectional study was conducted in seven Arab countries: Algeria, Egypt, Iraq, Lebanon, Libya, Tunisia, and the United Arab of Emirates. People who have recovered from COVID-19 completed the study questionnaire. Score of symptoms during and after COVID-19 infection has been calculated by giving the participants a list of 13 symptoms. RESULTS A total of 3519 participants completed the survey. Mostly females (68.3%), and aged between 18 and 40 years old (59.4%). Prophylaxis treatments, including vaccines and antibiotics, have been used in around 40% of the participants. The total average score of symptoms during the infection period was found 7.31 ± 3.66 out of 13. However, the symptoms score upon recovery was low (0.48 ± 1.11 score). The significant associations with increased incidence of symptoms during infection were reported with older people, married, divorced or widowed, people with chronic diseases, and obese. Moreover, significant associations with decreased symptoms were reported with those who worked in the health sector, non- or ex-smokers, and vaccinated people. CONCLUSION The use of medication and other treatments to prevent infection with COVID-19 was common among the participants in the seven countries. Taking the vaccine was the only effect on the number of symptoms experienced by patients. Although nearly two years have passed since the onset of the disease, there is still a need to raise treatment awareness among patients at home.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Muna Barakat
- School of Pharmacy, Applied Science Private University, Jordan
| | | | - Bayan Othman
- School of Pharmacy, Applied Science Private University, Jordan
| | | | - Hala Al-Obaidi
- College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences, Ajman University, UAE
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Kristoffersen AE, Jong MC, Nordberg JH, van der Werf ET, Stub T. Safety and use of complementary and alternative medicine in Norway during the first wave of the COVID-19 pandemic using an adapted version of the I-CAM-Q; a cross-sectional survey. BMC Complement Med Ther 2022; 22:234. [PMID: 36057614 PMCID: PMC9440323 DOI: 10.1186/s12906-022-03656-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/11/2021] [Accepted: 06/23/2022] [Indexed: 01/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Abstract
Background
The COVID-19 pandemic lockdown has had a profound impact on physical and mental well-being throughout the world. Previous studies have revealed that complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) is frequently used for, and can be potential beneficial for strengthening physical mental resilience. The aims of this study were therefore to determine the prevalence and reasons for use of CAM during the first wave of the COVID-19 pandemic among a representative sample of the Norwegian population, and further determine self-reported effects and adverse effects of the CAM modalities used.
Methods
Computer assisted telephone interviews using a COVID-adapted I-CAM-Q questionnaire were conducted with 1008 randomly selected Norwegians aged 16 and above using multistage sampling during April and May 2020 applying age and sex quotas for each area. Frequencies, Pearson’s chi-square tests, Fisher exact tests, and independent sample t-test were used to identify the users of CAM, what they used, why they used it and whether they experienced effect and/or adverse effects of the modalities used, and further to describe differences in sociodemographic factors associated with CAM use. Cronbach's alpha tests were used to test for internal consistency in the different groups of CAM. Significance level was set to p < 0.05.
Results
The study revealed that two thirds of the respondents (67%) had used CAM within the first 3 months of the COVID-19 pandemic, in particular CAM modalities that did not involve a provider. Most used were natural remedies and dietary supplement (57%, mainly vitamins and minerals), but self-help practices like yoga and meditation were also widely used (24%). Women used CAM modalities significantly more than men (77% vs. 58%). Most of the respondents found the modalities they used beneficial, and few reported adverse effects of the treatments.
Conclusions
A large proportion of the Norwegian population used CAM during the first wave of the COVID-19 pandemic with high satisfaction and few reported adverse effects. CAM was rarely used to prevent or treat COVID-19, but rather to treat a long-term health condition, and to improve well-being.
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Phytotherapy and Dietotherapy of COVID-19—An Online Survey Results from Central Part of Balkan Peninsula. Healthcare (Basel) 2022; 10:healthcare10091678. [PMID: 36141290 PMCID: PMC9498599 DOI: 10.3390/healthcare10091678] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/21/2022] [Revised: 08/29/2022] [Accepted: 08/30/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Since the appearance of the novel coronavirus disease of 2019—COVID-19, various therapeutic approaches were attempted, with complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) taking an important place. The aim of this study was to investigate the use of CAM with the purpose of prevention or treatment of COVID-19 during the pandemics. A prospective, cross-sectional study, in the form of an on-line survey was conducted. A total of 1704 responses were collected. Among the respondents, 2.76% declared currently and 22.12% previously having COVID-19. Approximately one quarter of interviewees (23.24%) declared themselves as phytotherapy users. The most frequently used medicinal plants were garlic, ginger and chamomile. The majority of respondents stated that they expected positive effects on immune and respiratory system. Medicinal plants were frequently used, on a daily basis. The main sources of information for applied self-medication were populistic thematic literature, followed by the Internet. Approximately one-third of phytotherapy users (35.25%) consulted with a medical professional before the application of phytotherapy. Regarding dietotherapy, 41.14% of respondents reported using non-herbal dietary supplements, while only 7.16% reported specific diet. The presented results suggest that CAM is recognized and readily used as a potential alternative and complementary regimen in the fight against COVID-19.
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Ahmad SR. Vitamin C for COVID-19 Treatment: Have We Got Enough Evidence? Front Nutr 2022; 9:892561. [PMID: 35662927 PMCID: PMC9161352 DOI: 10.3389/fnut.2022.892561] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/09/2022] [Accepted: 04/29/2022] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
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Zhang Y, Song M, Mucci LA, Giovannucci EL. Zinc supplement use and risk of aggressive prostate cancer: a 30-year follow-up study. Eur J Epidemiol 2022; 37:1251-1260. [PMID: 36326979 PMCID: PMC9630799 DOI: 10.1007/s10654-022-00922-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/16/2022] [Accepted: 09/22/2022] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Zinc supplementation was hypothesized to have therapeutic potential against prostate cancer, but its influence on prostate cancer incidence especially at high doses is controversial. METHODS A total of 47,240 men from the Health Professionals Follow-up Study were followed from 1986 to 2016. Men reported their zinc supplement use at baseline and biennially thereafter. Clinical features of prostate cancer included stage, grade, lethal and aggressive (T4 or N1 or M1 or Gleason 8-10) outcome. Multivariable Cox proportional hazards models were used to evaluate the association between zinc supplement use and incidence of prostate cancer. RESULTS During a median follow-up of 28.3 years, we documented 6,980 incident prostate cancer cases including 1,053 lethal and 1,143 aggressive. Zinc supplement use was not associated with overall, localized, low- and intermediate-grade prostate cancer. However, compared to never-users, men who used supplement zinc more than 75 mg/day were at higher risk for lethal (HR: 1.76, 95% CI: 1.16-2.66, Ptrend = 0.001) and aggressive prostate cancer (HR: 1.80, 95% CI: 1.19-2.73, Ptrend = 0.006). Similarly, men who took supplemental zinc for 15 or more years had a higher risk for lethal (HR: 1.91, 95% CI: 1.28-2.85, Ptrend <0.001) and aggressive prostate cancer (HR: 1.55, 95% CI: 1.03-2.33, Ptrend = 0.004). CONCLUSION Zinc supplementation of more than 75 mg per day or over 15 years may substantially increase risk of lethal and aggressive prostate cancer. Caution is warranted regarding excessive usage of zinc supplements among adult men.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yiwen Zhang
- Department of Epidemiology, Harvard T. H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA USA
| | - Mingyang Song
- Clinical and Translational Epidemiology Unit, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA USA ,Division of Gastroenterology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA USA ,Department of Nutrition, Harvard T. H. Chan School of Public Health, 655 Huntington Avenue, 02115 Boston, MA USA
| | - Lorelei A. Mucci
- Department of Epidemiology, Harvard T. H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA USA
| | - Edward L. Giovannucci
- Department of Epidemiology, Harvard T. H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA USA ,Department of Nutrition, Harvard T. H. Chan School of Public Health, 655 Huntington Avenue, 02115 Boston, MA USA
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